The big day is approaching, and it’s time to select the venues for your ceremony and reception. If this seems like an overwhelming task due to the plethora of options to choose from, you’ve come to the right place! Continue reading to discover some of the most popular, unique, and budget-friendly venues available for your special day.
Ceremony
- Church
If you, your family, and your fiancé’s family prefer a more traditional setting, getting married in a church is always a safe and memorable option. Just imagine walking down the aisle of a gorgeous church or cozy chapel as the sun filters through stained glass windows – you will not regret your decision! Check out the churches in your area to find the perfect fit for your wedding. Or, if you already belong to a church, getting married in the same building you are familiar with and love can make your wedding day even more special.
- Historical building
Choosing a historical building as your ceremony venue provides a unique setting as well as an opportunity to get married in a place that may hold special significance for you. If you live near any famous or local historical houses, halls, or other venues that are available for weddings, consider choosing one for your ceremony.
- Outdoors
Holding the wedding ceremony outdoors allows plenty of room for creativity, but it also requires extra planning as well as having a back-up location in case of bad weather. Before planning the logistical details though, you need to decide on what scenery you would like. If you live near the beach, getting married near the ocean would provide a magical atmosphere, especially if you schedule the ceremony near sunset. If the beach isn’t your thing or is simply too far, consider reserving space at a public garden, country club, or park. Get even more creative by saying your vows in a gazebo or under a floral arch.
Reception
- Country club
If you want to celebrate your reception at a separate venue, country clubs provide a sophisticated and enjoyable atmosphere. You can even choose to combine your ceremony and reception by getting married on the green and celebrating in the house – the perfect way to have both an indoor and outdoor wedding!
- Hotel/inn
Hotels such as the Marriot, Sheraton, or Hilton make an excellent location for the wedding reception. In addition to being very accommodating to long-distance guests who may choose to room there, hotels offer spacious ballrooms perfect for eating, dancing, and, of course, toasting. However, if the extravagant hotel isn’t you style, consider a smaller inn or bed and breakfast to host your reception in. Smaller venues are more affordable and have a more relaxing atmosphere which may be ideal for a smaller or more casual gathering.
- Barn
After the ceremony, consider moving the party to a barn for a rustic change of scenery. Barn receptions come with their own unique charm and elegance and will be sure to amaze your guests. You can even take it up a notch by decking the tables with sunflowers, trading your heels out for cow-girl boots, and surprising your guest with a square dance. The options are endless! Just be sure to find out everything you can about the location before scheduling your reservation. Barns vary on quality, so check for bathrooms, level of electricity, and curfews before finalizing your decision.
As with any aspect of your wedding plans, choosing the perfect venue takes careful organization and thought, but no matter what you decide on it won’t disappoint. Whether it’s indoors, outdoors, traditional, or unique, wherever you take your vows will give you unforgettable memories sure to last a life-time.
